A public exchange has emerged involving Iran, the United States, and the Vatican after remarks made by US President Donald Trump about Pope Leo XIV drew criticism from Iran. President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian expressed support for the Pope and criticised Trump's comments, describing them as a “desecration” of religious values.
He framed the remarks as disrespectful towards faith and said they undermine shared global values tied to religion and peace. Pezeshkian also conveyed solidarity with the Pope, highlighting the importance of respecting religious leaders.
عالی جناب پاپ لئون چهاردهم (@Pontifex) به نمایندگی از ملت بزرگ ایران توهین به جنابعالی را محکوم میکنم و اعلام میدارم هتک حرمت عیسی (ع)، پیامبر صلح و برادری برای هیچ آزادهای قابل قبول نیست. از الله برای شما سربلندی آرزو میکنم. https://t.co/9ZLi54FjKn
— Masoud Pezeshkian (@drpezeshkian) April 13, 2026
Taking to his official 'X' account, "Your Excellency Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex), on behalf of the great nation of Iran, I condemn the insult to Your Excellency and declare that the desecration of Jesus (peace be upon him), the Prophet of peace and brotherhood, is unacceptable to any free person. I wish glory for you from Allah."
Esmaeil Baqaei, Minist, Spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamic Republic of Iran stated in another 'X' post that, "In an era when the thunder of bombs and the clamor of warlords and aggressors weigh heavily on the world's conscience, the words of Pope Leo XIV echo the profound call of the Gospel: “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Insulting Pope Leo XIV is not only 'unchristian'; it is a blatant assault on responsible advocacy for peace, justice and humanity.
In an era when the thunder of bombs and the clamor of warlords and aggressors weigh heavily on the world's conscience, the words of Pope Leo XIV echo the profound call of the Gospel: “Blessed are the peacemakers.”
— Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) April 13, 2026
Insulting Pope Leo XIV is not only 'unchristian'; it is a blatant… https://t.co/NouJSnTRBf
Amid the developments, Pope Leo XIV has stated that he does not want to engage in a political dispute with Trump. According to reports, while speaking to reporters, he clarified that his role is based on faith rather than politics.
He said his message is guided by religious teachings and focused on peace, not political arguments. He also made it clear that he is not intimidated by the US administration and will continue to promote dialogue and global harmony.
The situation began after Trump made critical remarks about the Pope's views on global conflicts. Trump described the Pope as "weak on crime" and raised questions about his approach to international matters.
He also suggested that the Pope's leadership had political motivations and accused the Vatican of taking positions aligned with liberal views on key global issues.
In response to the criticism, Pope Leo XIV has maintained that religion should not be used to justify conflict. He has continued to speak against war and has urged world leaders to focus on peace. Trump had earlier posted on Truth Social an AI image of himself as Jesus Christ.
The Pope has also warned against the use of faith within political narratives, reinforcing his position that his role is centred on spiritual guidance rather than political alignment.
Iran's response has added an international dimension to what began as an exchange between the United States and the Vatican. By supporting the Pope, Iran has placed itself within a broader discussion around religion, politics, and global diplomacy.
This development has further intensified the situation, turning it into a wider geopolitical issue involving multiple actors and perspectives.
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